An inquiry in Queensland, Australia, has revealed disturbing details about a tragic incident involving three Christian extremists who carried out a deadly ambush on police officers in 2022. The attack, which resulted in the deaths of two officers and a bystander, was described as an act of terrorism aimed at intimidating state authorities.
The siege took place in the Wieambilla region, located west of Brisbane, where brothers Gareth and Nathaniel Train, along with Gareth's wife Stacey Train, engaged in a violent confrontation with police. The trio opened fire on officers who had arrived at their fortified property to check on Nathaniel's well-being, leading to a deadly standoff.
According to evidence presented at the inquiry, a political sociologist highlighted that the events of December 12, 2022, constituted a terrorist act driven by a religious ideological cause. The attackers viewed the Queensland government and police as adversaries to be coerced and intimidated through their extremist beliefs.
A chilling video posted on social media by Gareth and Stacey Train captured the tense moments as police surrounded their residence. In the video, the couple made alarming statements, suggesting a willingness to confront perceived threats with violence. Tragically, the confrontation resulted in the deaths of officers Rachel McCow and Matthew Arnold, as well as a neighbor who had approached the scene.
The incident was triggered by concerns raised about Nathaniel's health, prompting a welfare check by authorities. Nathaniel, who had crossed state borders illegally amid COVID-19 restrictions, had refused vaccination, leading to repercussions in his professional life as a school principal.
The ongoing inquiry aims to shed light on the circumstances surrounding the attack and its underlying motivations. As the investigation unfolds, the community grapples with the tragic consequences of extremism and violence that have shaken the region.
The inquiry is expected to continue for several weeks as authorities seek to unravel the complexities of this disturbing incident.
